Terri Jensen

Began at Teachwell:

Why did you choose this field?

I chose this field as I wanted to work with people and make a difference in their lives.

What or who most inspires you?

My biggest inspiration has always been my parents. They were both teachers and coaches and had the love of working with and for kids.​

What was your favorite subject in school?

My favorite class in school was Reading. I love to read.

What keeps you motivated?

I come back from workshops and conferences feeling rejuvenated and motivated with new ideas and things that I want to try. It is also very motivating to have parents that are happy with the progress and positive changes that they are seeing.

How do you hope to make a difference?

I hope to make a difference in the lives of those who have autism or are facing the challenges that a diagnosis of autism may bring to a family.

What is your background experience – degrees, experience, skills?

Augustana College (now University) graduate and a Master's Degree from USD in Communication Disorders.

Initially out of college I worked for a rehab company as a speech therapist covering a small hospital and nursing homes. After a few years, I worked in the Sioux Falls school district for approximately 15 years doing speech and language therapy in a variety of settings working with self contained classrooms to gifted students and with numerous disabilities. I served many autistic students and loved working with that population. This is my 4th year in the Brandon Valley district serving as the Autism Consultant and assisting teachers, students, and families.

What is the one thing you would like people to know about you?

I love to spend my free time with my husband following our teenagers at their activities. I also am certified with Therapy Dogs International to do pet therapy as I go to both Sanford and Avera for that.

What quirky thing are you known for around the office?

have computer, have bag, have car - will travel to multiple sites on any given day